The solution
Parametric modelling was used to explore and compare many different designs to inform the most effective and suitable solution. The process revealed numerous challenges and opportunities.
Modelling revealed that one side of the island would be the most heavily attacked by the harsh conditions of the North Sea. Royal HaskoningDHV identified that two stages of defence would deliver the most effective protection for the island; an approach which reduced the size of onshore defences.
First, an offshore emerged breakwater would partly dissipate the waves, with the island protected by secondary, onshore revetments.
Extensive modelling showed that in normal conditions the breakwater would dissipate most of the waves, creating a shallow, sheltered channel between the breakwater and the island.